Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with this succulent roasted chicken, marinated in garlic, lime, and spices, and served with a refreshing green sauce (aji verde) made from cilantro, jalapeño, and lime. Perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal, this dish offers a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and savory notes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 8 pieces chicken (bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Green Sauce (Aji Verde):
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (with tender stems)
- 1–2 jalapeño peppers (seeded for less heat, if desired)
- 1 garlic clove
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
-
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken pieces. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
-
Roast the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased roasting pan.
- Roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden, the skin is crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
-
Prepare the Green Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend until smooth, tasting and adjusting salt or lime juice as needed.
-
Serve:
- Plate the roasted chicken and drizzle or serve alongside the green sauce. Enjoy with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For a smoky twist, grill the marinated chicken instead of roasting.
- Adjust the number of jalapeños to suit your heat preference.
- The green sauce can be made ahead and chilled; stir before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2 pieces)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Sugar: ~2 g
- Sodium: ~400 mg
- Fat: ~20 g
- Saturated Fat: ~5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~15 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~5 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Protein: ~30 g
- Cholesterol: ~90 mg